Stadium Managers Association (SMA) News

SMA held its annual vote for the 2014 Board of Directors at the recent Seminar in Palm Springs, California. The membership offered appreciation to President, Dave Scott, who was not able to complete his term after he took a position outside of the industry. The Board thanked Past President Joe Abernathy, VP of Stadium Operations for the St. Louis Cardinals, who stepped in to complete Dave’s term.

Corporate Director, Mike Grindle, Business Development Manager with BASF, was thanked for his 4-years of service to the Board, as his term ended in February 2014. Mike has been a strong voice on the Board for corporate sponsors, and will continue his support by acting as a resource for the new Corporate Director.

Troy Hoberg, Vice President of Business Development for Hunt Construction, was elected as the new Corporate Director for a 4-year term beginning February 2014. Mark Burk, Director, Rice-Eccles Stadium, was elected to serve a 3-year term as the College Manager Director. Jim Minish, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority, was elected to serve a 3-year term as a Stadium Manager Director. And Joe Abernathy, VP of Stadium Operations for the St. Louis Cardinals, was elected to serve a 3-year term as a Stadium Manager Director.

Following the general election, the Board elected officers to serve a 1-year term beginning in February. Mark Burk, Director, Rice-Eccles Stadium, was elected as President, Tony Pereira, Senior Director of Ballpark Operations at Safeco Field, was elected as Vice-President, and Troy Brown, Senior Director of Event Operations at the Chicago White Sox was elected as Secretary/Treasurer.

The Stadium Managers Association (SMA) is an organization that educates and provides industry resources to assist professional and collegiate stadium managers in achieving the highest levels of facility administration and operation. SMA supports and promotes the professional relationships and networking among stadium managers, league officials and industry suppliers that contribute to the success of our members. The Association is committed to being the primary industry resource for Sports Facility Managers and Leading Suppliers in the stadium industry. PanStadia & Arena Management magazine is proud to be a Media Partner to the Association.

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